Millions of Android users have noticed a major change in their calling interface. After the recent Google Phone update, the familiar dialer screen looks completely different. While some users appreciate the new design, many are unhappy with the sudden change. Several users say they prefer the older version of the calling screen. The good news is that there is still a way to get the old interface back.

Why the Google Phone App UI Changed

Google recently introduced a new visual style with Android 16. The company rolled out the Material 3 Expressive Redesign to its core applications. This redesign aims to create a modern look with better animations and color adjustments.

The update did not require users to manually install a new version. Instead, Google activated the redesign through a server-side update. This meant that millions of Android users saw their Phone app change overnight without warning.

The new design included changes in the dialer, call screen, and interface colors. While Google described it as part of the Material You philosophy, not everyone welcomed the shift. Many users immediately shared their frustration on social media. According to them, the old design was cleaner and more convenient.

User Reaction to the New Calling Screen

As soon as the redesign appeared, Android communities online began buzzing with discussions. Users expressed disappointment about the new UI on platforms like Reddit, X, and Facebook. Some complained that the new call screen looks cluttered. Others said the placement of buttons is less user-friendly.

Many Android owners reported that they prefer the old flat design. They argued that it was faster to use during calls. For frequent callers, the sudden change created confusion. Some users even claimed that the update disrupted their daily workflow.

The backlash showed how much people value stability in essential apps. While design changes are common in software, altering the calling screen affects everyone directly. For this reason, frustration spread quickly across regions.

How to Restore the Old Google Phone UI

If you are unhappy with the new look, there is a simple fix. The trick is to uninstall the recent updates of the Google Phone app. Once this is done, the app reverts to its factory version. That means the old interface returns instantly.

Here are the steps:

• Open the Settings on your Android phone.

• Go to Apps or See All Apps.

• Locate and tap on Dialer/Phone.

• Tap on the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.

• Select Uninstall Updates.

Once the updates are removed, the Phone app goes back to its default design. The old calling screen reappears with the familiar button placement.

However, there are some important things to note. When you uninstall updates, some custom settings may be lost. In rare cases, call history may also disappear. Therefore, users should be careful before proceeding.

Preventing Auto Updates After Reverting

Even after uninstalling updates, the Google Play Store may reinstall them. If automatic updates remain enabled, the app will again return to the new UI. To prevent this, users need to disable auto-updates for the Phone app.

To do this, open the Google Play Store, go to the Phone app page, and uncheck the auto-update option. By doing so, the app will remain in its older version without being forced to update.

This ensures that users who dislike the new UI can continue using the older design without interruption.

Why Google Introduced the Material 3 Redesign

The Material 3 Expressive Redesign was part of a broader strategy by Google. The company wants to unify the design language across Android apps. It aims to provide consistency between Gmail, Google Messages, and Google Phone.

According to Google’s design team, Material 3 offers more flexibility with themes. It adjusts colors based on user wallpaper and creates a personalized look. Google claims that this improves accessibility and modernizes the Android experience.

However, critics argue that such changes should remain optional. Forcing a new UI without a toggle leaves users frustrated. The calling screen is one of the most frequently used interfaces on any smartphone. Small changes can disrupt habits built over years.

Social Media Complaints Highlight User Preference

After the update rolled out, many users posted screenshots comparing old and new designs. The hashtag #GooglePhoneUI even trended in some regions. Some users demanded that Google provide a setting to switch back. Others said they were considering third-party dialer apps to avoid the redesign.

User reviews on the Google Play Store also reflected dissatisfaction. Many rated the app lower due to the UI change. A large number of reviews specifically mentioned the wish to restore the old look.

This response shows that while innovation is necessary, stability remains equally important. A sudden redesign without prior notice can damage trust in a widely used app.

Risks of Using the Old Version

Although reverting to the older version brings back the familiar design, there are risks. Older versions may not receive the latest security patches. Without updates, certain bugs or vulnerabilities may remain unpatched.

In addition, new Android features may not work properly with the factory version. For example, integration with Android 16 features might fail. Users who rely on new features may face compatibility issues.

Therefore, while uninstalling updates provides relief, it also comes with trade-offs. Users need to balance comfort with security. Some may choose to adapt to the new UI rather than risk outdated software.

Possible Alternatives for Users

For those who strongly dislike the new design, third-party dialer apps are available. Many apps on the Play Store provide clean and simple calling screens. Some even allow customization of buttons, colors, and layouts.

However, third-party apps may not offer the same reliability as Google’s own app. Integration with system functions like call recording or spam detection may be weaker. Still, for users who want full control over design, this is an option.

What This Means for Android Users

The controversy highlights a larger issue in the tech world. Users are increasingly demanding choice in how their apps look and function. Forced redesigns without user control often lead to backlash.

For Android, which promotes customization, this is even more important. Users expect to decide how their phones look. Google’s decision to push the redesign without an option has sparked debate on transparency.

It also raises the question of whether companies should provide a toggle between old and new designs. This would allow innovation without alienating loyal users.

Future of the Google Phone App

It is unclear whether Google will respond to user complaints. Sometimes, strong backlash has led companies to reconsider design choices. In past cases, Google has adjusted UI changes after public pressure.

If user dissatisfaction continues, the company might add a setting to switch styles. For now, uninstalling updates remains the only option for restoring the old UI.

The debate also reflects the tension between innovation and user comfort. As software evolves, companies must find balance. Too much change too quickly can create resistance, even if the changes are technically improvements.

The new Google Phone app update has created mixed reactions among Android users. While some welcome the Material 3 redesign, many want the old UI back. The sudden shift has shown how sensitive users are about familiar features.

Fortunately, a simple process of uninstalling updates restores the classic design. By disabling auto-updates, users can keep the old interface. However, this comes with risks related to security and compatibility.

The controversy highlights the need for balance between design innovation and user choice. As Google continues refining Android, listening to user feedback will be crucial. For now, millions of users will decide whether to adapt to the new UI or stick with the old one.